15 Celtic symbols for the family you should know about and their meanings

15 Celtic symbols for the family you should know about and their meanings

Celtic culture is rich with symbolism, and the portrayal of family is one area where these symbols really stand out. As a result, the Celts have used various symbols throughout history to emphasise the value of family and lineage. Explore the different Celtic symbols for family and their unique meanings.

Celtic symbols for the family
Different Celtic symbols on decorative pieces. Photo: @ogham_giftshop, @missvalkyrieshop, @stonemadcrafts (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The ancient Celts believed that their ornaments held tremendous supernatural power. Every pattern had a meaning: love, health, strength, money, and well-being. Each Celt chose a unique design for his amulet based on what they valued the most. It was believed that this was one way of determining their fate.

Celtic ornaments and symbols are still used in jewellery, amulets, art, tattoos, and other decorative applications. Before selecting a Celtic-style ornament, you should understand its meaning.

15 Celtic symbols for family and their meaning

The Celtic patterns have the appearance of a complex maze. All lines of these designs are marvellously intertwined with one another, making a unique ornament. Here are 15 family Celtic symbols and their meanings.

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1. The Tree of Life

The interdependence of all living things, including family members, is represented by the Tree of Life. It represents strength, wisdom, and the enduring cycle of life, with its branches reaching towards the heavens and its roots reaching far into the Earth. The Tree of Life emphasises the significance of family and ongoing growth and evolution.

2. The Celtic Cross

Celtic symbols for the family
A Celtic Cross-inspired tattoo and an art craft. Photo: @polka_and_volt, @graffitifurnitureng (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Celtic Cross is a common Celtic symbol for family tattoos. It represents family faith and spirituality. It also symbolises the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds, reminding families of their values, heritage, and the significance of nurturing the soul.

3. The Triskele

Celtic symbols for the family
The Triskele pattern on a rock and as a pendant. Photo: @oghamart, @lufolk (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Triskele, also known as Triskelion, is a Celtic symbol for the family featuring three interlocking spirals. It signifies the cyclical aspect of life and the interconnectedness of a family's past, present, and future generations. It represents continuous transformation, growth, and the eternal nature of familial bonds.

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4. The Triquetra

Which Celtic knot represents family? The Triquetra, also known as the Trinity Knot, is a Celtic symbol comprising three interlocking arcs. It represents a family's unity of mind, body, and spirit. The sign symbolises harmony, balance, and interdependence of family members.

5. The Claddagh ring

What is the Celtic symbol for family love? The Claddagh ring is one of the most popular Celtic symbols. It has a heart representing love, a crown representing loyalty, and hands indicating friendship. The ring is frequently worn as a wedding ring, and custom holds that you should never buy a Claddagh ring for yourself; instead, it should be given as a gift.

6. The Celtic Motherhood Knot

Celtic symbols for the family
A Celtic Motherhood Knot as a pendant and a tattoo. Photo: @cabiriatattoo, @dodesigns (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Motherhood Knot is a Celtic symbol for the family that honours mothers' nurturing and protective nature. It has a core heart shape surrounded by a woven design representing the love, care, and guidance mothers provide within the family unit.

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7. The Spiral

Celtic symbols for the family
A Spiral pattern as a tattoo and an art craft. Photo: @raccoonpaws, @gillythomassculpture (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Spiral is one of the Celtic symbols for father and son. Its elaborate and interwoven design represents eternal love, togetherness, and interconnection. It can also symbolise the unbreakable bond a father and son share and the enduring love and support they share.

8. The Celtic Knot

The intricate Celtic Knot is a timeless symbol of eternity, with no discernible beginning or end. It signifies the unbreakable bond between family members, emphasising their bond and the enduring love that transcends time. The Celtic Knot is perfect for a family tattoo.

9. The Dara Knot

Celtic symbols for the family
The Dara knot on a sketch and as a chest tattoo. Photo: @dianeswartzberg, @houseofmojo (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Dara Knot is among the most unique Celtic symbols for families. It has a woven pattern that looks like interwoven tree roots. It represents family strength, perseverance, and deep-rooted connections, fostering unity and reminding family members to stay connected in their shared values.

10. The Ailm

Celtic symbols for the family
The Ailm symbol and a chain pendant. Photo: @tattoowattoo, @suesurdidesigns (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Ailm symbol is derived from the first letter of the Celtic Ogham alphabet. It is associated with healing and nourishment. The symbol signifies the family's dedication to care and support one another, providing strength, wisdom, and emotional well-being in times of need.

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11. The Serch Bythol

Celtic symbols for the family
A Serch Bythol pattern on an art craft and a pendant. Photo: @wattswoodstore, @iam.seil (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

A lesser-known Celtic symbol for family, the Serch Bythol, demonstrates how in tune the Celts were with their feelings and interpersonal connections. It stands for genuine, everlasting love between two people. This love serves as the foundation for the formation of families.

12. The Brigid's Cross

Celtic symbols for the family
The Brigid's Crosson a sketch and an art craft. Photo: @gara_skincare, @be_alice (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

Brigid's Cross is associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid and is believed to keep homes and families safe. This symbol represents the essence of a home, bringing security, love, and warmth to a family. It indicates the significance of providing family members with a loving and inviting environment.

13. The Irish Harp

Celtic symbol for the family
An Irish Harp tattoo design and musical instrument. Photo: @lisaftattoo, @oghamart (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

What is the Irish Celtic for the family? The harp is a classic Celtic symbol that can be found all over Ireland, and it even appears on the official state seal. The Irish Harp represents one's immortal soul and is special to Christian families. It signifies that life on Earth is not the end but that there is eternal life after leaving this world.

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14. The Eternity Knot

Celtic symbols for the family
A decorative piece and bracelet with the Eternity Knot. Photo: @wallflowerandwyatt, @contour.id (modified by author)
Source: Instagram

The Eternity Knot represents unending love and bonds within a family. Its elaborate design has no beginning or end, representing the infinite nature of familial bonds. This symbol reminds families of their eternal bond and the enduring love that transcends time.

15. The Shield Knot

The Shield Knot represents protection and strength within a family unit. Its intertwined knotwork represents the significance of working together to overcome challenges. This sign represents the family's collective strength, perseverance, and dedication to one another.

Understanding these Celtic symbols for family can deepen your appreciation for the rich heritage and profound meanings associated with family bonds. These symbols honour and celebrate the bond, love, and support that hold families together through generations.

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Racheal Murimi (Lifestyle writer) Racheal Murimi is a content creator who joined Yen in 2022. She has over four years of experience in creating content. Racheal graduated from Dedan Kimathi University of Technology with a bachelor's degree in BCom, Finance. She has amassed sufficient knowledge working on various topics, including biographies, fashion and lifestyles, guides, and more. In 2023, Racheal finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. You can reach her at wambuimurimi254@gmail.com